Sculpting with Clay
As a portrait artist I have been told often that understanding anatomy is important in the development of my drawing skills. When a class was offered by sculptor Rick Casalie, I eagerly signed up.
The artistic challenge was to sculpt from life a head and shoulders portrait in clay. Our model Russ Pyle was an older gentleman with a beautiful facial structure. I was fascinated with his high cheek bones, slim face and the sunken eyes an aging person. We began by shaping and establishing the size of the head, brow, and chin. And then we worked the overall shape of the head and neck.
Observation is key in understanding the anatomy of the model. Working slowly and making measurements of the facial features and translating them into the sculptured clay was both challenging and fascinating. This was my first ever attempt to sculpt a figure in clay so working slowly and carefully with great instruction was the key to my success.
What I learned from the sculpting experience was the same as with any art medium, observe carefully, work slowly and deliberately, make corrections as you go along and enjoy the process. Thanks to Rick and Russ my first learning experience in sculpting with clay was all I had hoped it would be and a great foundation for understanding the skills needed for drawing a portrait.
Enjoy Life and ART.